Question 3 RVR04 - Master or Mate of LT 200 GRT

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for Option B (it is a large course change):** This question relates directly to Rule 8(b) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which states: "Any alteration of course and/or speed to avoid collision shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, be **large enough to be readily apparent** to another vessel observing visually or by radar; a succession of small alterations of course and/or speed should be avoided." A course change alone is most effective when it signals clearly and immediately to the other vessel what the vessel intends to do. A **large course change** achieves this requirement of being "readily apparent." If the change is too small, the other vessel may not detect it immediately or may assume it is merely a yaw in the steering, leading to confusion and delayed reactions, which increases the risk of collision. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **A) the course change is to starboard:** While Rule 19 (Restricted Visibility) and Rule 14 (Head-on situation) often involve changes to starboard, the general principle of avoiding collision (Rule 8) allows for any effective course change. The effectiveness of the change depends on its size and clarity, not its direction (unless mandated by specific rules). **C) it is done in a succession of small course changes:** This is explicitly contrary to Rule 8(b), which mandates that "a succession of small alterations of course and/or speed should be avoided." Small, repeated changes are confusing and difficult to interpret visually or by radar. **D) it is NOT done too early:** Rule 8(a) states that action to avoid collision "shall be taken in ample time." Taking action too late is disastrous, but Rule 8 emphasizes taking action in **ample time** and ensuring that the action is **effective**. The effectiveness of a course change relies primarily on its magnitude (Rule 8(b)), not whether it was marginally early or late.